Orders, Decorations, Medals and Militaria

A Great War 1918 ‘Somme’ M.M. awarded to Sergeant F. J. Sweedman, 49th Australian Infantry Battalion, Australian Imperial Force, who was wounded in action, 16 August 1916

Military Medal, G.V.R. (4577 Cpl. F. J. Sweedman 49/Aust: Inf:) slightly polished, nearly very fine £600-800

M.M. London Gazette 29 March 1919. The original recommendation states:

‘During the period 26th March to 18th September 1918, this non-commissioned officer has done continuous good work as a leader of a Lewis-gun Section. In action he has invariably shown marked skill and bravery in heading his Lewis-gun team and his work generally has been most satisfactory. He has invariably set a splendid example of bravery and cheerfulness to all with whom he came in contact.’

Frederick John Sweedman was born in Meringarden, Queensland, Australia, in 1891. He enlisted in the Australian Imperial Force, 7 September 1915. Sweedman arrived in Egypt in March 1916, and embarked for France in the H.T. Huntspill, 7 June 1916. He served with the 49th Australian Infantry Battalion, as part of the 13th Australian Brigade, 4th Australian Division in the French theatre of war.

Sweedman received a gunshot wound to the left knee, 16 August 1916. Having recovered from his wound, Sweedman advanced to Corporal in May 1918. He was awarded his M.M. for a prolonged period of service on the Somme in 1918. Sweedman advanced to Sergeant in December 1918. He returned to Australia in H.T. Swakopmund in August 1919, and was discharged in September of the same year.